Artifact 5

Context
As a part of a group, I researched cognitive special needs for my Curriculum & Instruction class at Appalachian State University in March 2001. I conducted most of my research on the World Wide Web and our group produced a brochure to share with the class resources and important information.

Impact
My part of the group was to specifically focus on cognitive learning disabilities. This research helped me to learn about different cognitive learning disabilities and how I can help these students if/when they are in my classroom. Along with my own learning, part of the purpose of this research was to teach this information to other pre-service teachers in my class so they will be prepared for these students too.

Alignment
I used many different resources from the Internet to get the information that I shared with my colleagues. My group members and I put some of the information we learned about cognitive special needs learners and some resources into a brochure using Microsoft Publisher to share with our classmates. (Tech competency 13.2) The brochure was used to communicate to colleagues but could also be used for parents of children with cognitive special needs to understand how their children learn. Also, it could be used to help anyone who deals with children with the special needs. (Tech competency 12.3) This research shows that I am willing to do the research needed to help the students in my class. When I am teaching, I plan to pay close attention to my students behaviors through observations and reflections. If/when I realize that I have a special needs learner in my class I will do the necessary research to help my student. In order to realize that one of my students needs special help I will have had to reflected on the students behavior and what it means. When I make the effort to do the research I am showing willingness to grow professionally. I will constantly be learning and growing in my years of teaching. (INTASC #9) Amongst our resources used during research were several national and state services for special needs learners. One in particular was a state service in Massachusetts to help inform parents and teachers of ways to help children with cognitive learning disabilities. (Tech Competency 13.4)